Post-doctoral position in Solid Mechanics - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Subject descripiton
The topic of solid mechanics deals with methods and principles for determining deformations, stresses and failure phenomena in deformable bodies. Solid mechanics is a basic subject in mechanical engineering and of fundamental importance to related disciplines. The problems and issues addressed in the field of solid mechanics have a clear relevance for industrial applications. Research in the subject is specifically focused on constitutive mechanics, numerical methods, structural optimization, fracture mechanics, stability analysis and experimental methods.

Work duties
The position is part of a project aimed at identifying the governing mechanisms for the mechanical properties of interface and layers in a packaging composite. The project includes the development of new image analysis tools to characterize delamination and material deformation based on 3D images, e.g. X-ray tomography. Image correlation and image segmentation based on optimization theory will be utilised. In addition to creating new tools for image analysis of volume data, the project also aims to create an increased understanding of problems around delamination.

Image analysis, optimisation and code development are central to the project. X-ray tomography experiments at both the 4D imaging laboratory at LTH and international synchronous systems will be carried out in the project.

The main task of a postdoctoral researcher is to conduct the research project, but participation in teaching (but up to no more than 20% of working hours) and other institutional work such as working with collaborative partners from universities and industry is expected.The position includes the opportunity for three weeks of training in higher education teaching and learning.

Qualification requirements
The basic qualification for a postdoctoral researcher is a doctoral degree in physics, engineering, computer science, image analysis or related discipline, completed no more than three years before the last date for application.

Additional requirements

• The applicant should have practical experience of code development and implementation of optimisations algorithms.
• Applicants should be able to express themselves well in English (written and oral).
• The ability to work both independently and as part of a team is of great importance.

The candidate should have documented experience in the following areas:

• Deep knowledge in development and implementation of optimisation algorithms with large deformations
• Knowledge in data filtering/filtering methods
• Knowledge in continuum mechanics
• Good knowledge in solid mechanics and physics
• Scientific programming in one or more of the following languages: Python, MATLAB, C / C ++, Fortran.
• English presentation ability in speech and writing.
• Good communication skills.
• Independent work in projects together with researchers and research groups.

Assessment criteria and other qualifications
This is a career development position primarily focused on research. The position is intended as an initial step in a career, and the assessment of the applicants will primarily be based on their research qualifications and potential as researchers. Particular emphasis will be placed on research skills within the subject.

For appointments to a post-doctoral position, the following shall form the assessment criteria:

• A good ability to develop and conduct high quality research.
• Teaching skills.

Additional assessment criteria:

• Experience in 3D image analysis and visualization.
• Good knowledge in constitutive modelling and numerical methods such as the finite element method
• Experience in x-ray tomography
• Experience in education / teaching.
• Knowledge in Swedish.

The selection will be based on evaluation of skills and experiences in optimisation, image analysis and development of optimisation and/or image analysis algorithms. 

We will place great emphasis on personal suitability. The evaluation will take into account factors such as problem solving ability, analytical ability, collaboration skills and initiative. Communication skills and ability to work independently will also be evaluated.

Terms of employment
This is a full-time, fixed-term employment of 2 years. The period of employment is determined in accordance with the agreement “Avtal om tidsbegränsad anställning som postdoktor” (“Agreement on fixed-term employment as a post-doctoral fellow”) between Lund University, SACO-S, OFR/S and SEKO, dated 4 September 2008.

Instructions for the application
The application should contain a personal letter stating why you are interested in the position and in what way the research project matches your interests and your educational background. The application must also contain a CV, diploma or equivalent and other information that you wish to invoke (copies of grades, information on references, letters of recommendation etc.).